The True Story of Maria Lionza - Interview Juana de Dios Final

THE LEGEND
The cult of Maria Lionza dates back to the 15th century, before the arrival of the Spaniards to Venezuela. By that time, the natives who inhabited the territory that currently conforms the Yaracuy state, worshiped Yara, goddess of nature and love. Popular tradition describes her as a beautiful woman with green eyes, long lashes, broad hips and smooth hair adorned by three open flowers. It is said that it smelled of orchids and was of sweet smile and soft voice. They say he had the ability to communicate with animals.
According to legend, Yara was an indigenous princess, who was kidnapped by a huge anaconda who fell in love with her. When the spirits of the mountain learned of what happened, they decided to punish the serpent causing it to swell until it burst and died. Then they named Yara, owner of the lagoons, rivers and waterfalls, protector mother of nature and queen of love.